Geneva Motor Show 2020 Cancelled Due to Coronavirus Risk

After the Swiss Government took the decision to ban events of over 1,000 people in order to contain the coronavirus outbreak, organisers have cancelled the Geneva Motor Show 2020.

This announcement was made this morning (February 28), just 4 days before the event.

Chairman of the event’s Foundation Board, Maurice Turrettini, said “We regret this situation, but the health of all participants is our and our exhibitors’ top priority. This is a case of force majeure and a tremendous loss for the manufacturers who have invested massively in their presence in Geneva. However, we are convinced that they will understand this decision.”

The Swiss Government’s ban on large public events remain in place until at least 15th March.

The government said: “The Federal Council’s top priority is to protect the population. It is responding to the latest developments in the coronavirus epidemic and has categorised the situation in Switzerland as ‘special’ in terms of the Epidemics Act. This enables the Federal Council, in consultation with the cantons, to order measures that are normally the responsibility of the cantons.”

The cancellation of this show will have a huge impact on OEMs who are keen to showcase their move into EV.

A statement issued by the body added: “One thing is certain: tickets already purchased for the event will be refunded. The organisers will communicate about this as soon as possible, via their website.”

For more information, head over to AM Online.